Food Dealer License (Retail Food Establishment)
Required for retail food establishments in Wisconsin including grocery stores, convenience stores, bakeries, and any business selling food directly to consumers. Regulated by DATCP under ATCP 75.
How to Get a Food Dealer License (Retail Food Establishment) in Wisconsin
| Issuing Body | WI DATCP |
| Initial Fee | $175 |
| Exam Required | No |
| Application | Apply online → |
License Lookup & Verification
Verify a food dealer license (retail food establishment) holder's credentials through the Wisconsin DSPS online license lookup tool.
Verify a License →Frequently Asked Questions — Food Dealer License (Retail Food Establishment)
Do I need a food dealer license for a farmers market stand in Wisconsin?
It depends on what you sell. Fresh, unprocessed produce does not require a food dealer license. However, if you sell processed foods (baked goods, canned items, prepared foods), you likely need either a food dealer license or may qualify under Wisconsin's Pickle Bill exemptions for limited sales.
What is the Wisconsin Pickle Bill?
The Pickle Bill (Wisconsin Act 338) allows certain home-processed foods to be sold directly to consumers without a food processing plant license, up to $25,000 in annual sales. Qualifying foods include canned fruits/vegetables, baked goods, dried herbs, and popcorn. You must label products with your name, address, and 'This product was made in a home kitchen that is not inspected.'
How often are food establishments inspected in Wisconsin?
DATCP conducts routine inspections typically 1-2 times per year, with frequency based on risk level. High-risk establishments (those handling raw proteins, doing extensive cooking) are inspected more frequently than low-risk operations (pre-packaged food only).
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